Welcome to our new website. 2016 was a very special year for our parish. In July of that year, our church was consecrated by Archbishop Bernard Longley. To commemorate this event, our website was redesigned and modernised to work across a variety of devices such as laptops, desktops, tablets and smart phones. As always, we are dependant on you to provide feedback on this site so please let us know what you think using the contact us page here.

Stop Press! Our parish church was consecrated on 9th July 2016. Come back soon to see a full report on the preparations and the Consecration Mass presided over by Archbishop Bernard Longley hereIf you want to know when our mass times for Christmas 2017, click here

Father Frank writes on this week’s Mass

In the scriptures today we hear references to the "banquet" that is the Kingdom of God. The invitation to the Kingdom is open to all, not just to the prosperous and respectable - not just to people who have "farms", "businesses" and who often put their interests ahead of the Kingdom, but also to those who have no home, no steady employment, no businesses - the poor and the outcasts, those who are not respected. Such is God's love, freely lavished upon all his creatures, "good and bad" alike. This is the love lavished upon us in the banquet of the Eucharist - the "wedding feast" of the Kingdom of God where God gathers his creation to himself in order that it may be one with him.

Parish Events

Looking for the rest of the Parish Event List? We have archived the list from our old site but you can still view them here.

Meditations on the Eucharist, Church and mission continue after Mass on Wednesdays. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ and his Church and to find peace in the presence of Our Lord in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome.

This is a very special year in the life of our parish, as our church will be consecrated on 9th July by Archbishop Bernard Longley. Preparations are already underway, both for the consecration service itself, and for various fund-raising activities. Updates on our progress so far are published in our Easter newsletter available online (along with our weekly Sunday bulletin) on this website For more details of how you can be involved, please speak to Joe Martin or Ian Clarke, or email enquiries@brgparish.org.uk.

There is a serious food crisis in Ethiopia. Extreme weather shifts, part of the El Nino effect, mean severe drought has left millions of people in need of emergency food aid. 400,000 children are already suffering from malnutrition and we need to act now to prevent a far more terrible crisis. Please give to the collection today for CAFOD's emergency humanitarian response. And please pray for those who are suffering.

Thank you to Paul Ryan for his generous donation of time and materials in repairing the gulley in the car park. If anyone would like to talk to Paul about driveways, paving or landscaping please call him on 07831 386621

We would like to thank those who donated the four consecration candles put up in the church. These are in memory of the following. Bridge and Perry family, Cotterill family, McLean family, Daniel Mark Lester and Amy Pullen

Father Frank is on holiday this week. There will be a Eucharistic Service at 10.00am on Tuesdays while he is away. There will be no Mass with the Anointing of the Sick in July and no First Friday Mass in August.

Thank you so much for the generous CAFOD donations collected in the last two weeks. An exceptional total of £382 was raised and that is without the Gift Aid extra reimbursement which will make the final total well in excess of £400. Thank you especially to all who took the time to fill in their details

Whilst Fr. Frank is away the only celebration through the week will be a Eucharistic Service at 10.00am on Tuesday. Normal service will be resumed on Wednesday 10th August with Mass, followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and meditations until 8.00pm. There will be no First Friday Mass in August

A warm welcome to Father Ed O'Connell, a Columban Father, who will be presiding at the Mass today. Father Ed will also talk to us about the work he is doing with the poor in Lima, Peru. Our Parish have been helping Fr. Ed for 16 years with our Breakfasts and money from our Bottle.

Please note that there is a Eucharistic Service at 10.00am on Tuesday and normal weekday Mass service is resumed on Wednesday 10th August with Mass at 7.00pm followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and meditations until 8.00pm. There will be a 10.00am Mass on Thursday.

Adrian Stewart and Frank Clements, recently departed and for all those who mourn their passing. Their Requiem Masses will be held at Blessed Robert Grissold on Thursday and Friday of this week at 11.30 a.m.

Ros Cawley, Chris Mitchell & Maureen Carroll are going to Lourdes next Friday. They will be staying at Hosanna House, a House owned by H.C.P.T. in Bartres near Lourdes. During their week's stay they will remember you all. Do remember them in your prayers. If you have a petition you wish them to take, please give it to either Ros or Chris. Thank you

For Readers and anyone interested in becoming a Reader. This is a chance to explore in more detail, the Ministry of Reader and your place in it. For more details, please see the notice board or contact Kate Tennyson on 01926 314077, or email kate.tennyson@googlemail.com. There is a letter of invitation for all readers, at the back of church. If you are not yet a reader but wish to attend, please contact Kate as above to obtain detail

Please can parishioners (particularly parents of young children) give some thought to joining our children's liturgy rota? You are welcome to volunteer as a leader or a helper, or both! New child protection rules mean that we need to have two vetted people in every session we run, and without more volunteers we will have weeks when we are not able to run a session. The vetting procedure is very simple. Please speak to Louise Perry or Kathryn Driffield if you can help

Chris, Ros & Maureen returned back last Friday having had a very good week at Hoanna House in Lourdes. We did remember you all there. We thank you for your prayers. Maureen did light your candles that you asked her at Easter. Apologies for the delay!

We urgently need more bottles for our stall. At the moment we only have 102 and have only two weeks to make up the number to 300. Can you please support us over the next two Sundays and bring whatever you can. Thank you

It has been brought to my attention that some are dipping the consecrated host into the precious blood of Christ at Holy Communion. This practice is forbidden. If you do not wish to drink from the chalice then just receive Communion in one kind. To receive Communion in one kind is to receive a full Communion. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. Father Frank

October is the month of the Rosary and it is a good time therefore to renew our devotion to this rich source of prayer. We will offer up a decade of the Rosary at every weekday Mass throughout the month of October. On Friday 7th October we celebrate the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary and we will pray 5 decades of the Rosary after Mass. All welcome

Our church will once again be hosting the dinner and speaker on Friday 7 October at 7 for 7.30pm. The Indian buffet meal will be provided by the Bengal Brasserie, bring your own drinks. Tickets are £12.50 available from John & Louise Perry

This Harvest Day we are invited to join 32-year-old Nicanora from Bolivia, on her journey from poverty to abundance. We can stand alongside Nicanora as she learns new skills and receives materials and seeds that will enable her to grow enough food to feed her family. Please pick up a Fast Day envelope and give what you can.

Last Call for Parish Dinner. Next Saturday,15th October, and if anyone else would like to come, please see Pam after Mass. It is a four course meal including a glass of wine and entertainment, all for only £20 per person. Dinner is 7:30pm for 8:00pm. Please remember to bring your own drinks

We are looking for some more volunteers to be church wardens and join our existing teams. The main duties are to welcome parishioners and visitors to Mass and help with the collections. Your turn only comes round about every eight weeks. If you are willing to help please give your name to Joe Martin after Mass.

Please can parishioners (particularly parents of young children) give some thought to joining our children's liturgy rota? You are welcome to volunteer as a leader or a helper, or both! New child protection rules mean that we need to have two vetted people in every session we run, and without more volunteers we will have weeks when we are not able to run a session. The vetting procedure is very simple - please ask Louise Perry or Kathryn Driffield for the paperwork

Thank you to everyone for supporting the Parish Dinner, especially all who helped to make this such a great evening. We raised the magnificent sum of £778.50. Watch out for pictures from the evening appearing soon. Pam and Chris

An opportunity for those 18-40 to deepen their knowledge of the Catholic faith, learn its devotions, meet like-minded people and have fun. For more information click on the link. Prices start from £12.
http//www.youngcatholicadults.co.uk/events.htm for more information

Kathryn Green's adventures in South Africa are now online in our Parish Archive. Follow the link to learn more about Kathryn's visit to South Africa to team in a primary school, see the pictures and watch the video of her experience

Thanks to all those who shared in the praying of the Rosary together in church during the Month of October - the Month of the Holy Rosary. Our gratitude, also, to Kathryn for sharing with us her experience in Africa and for the love and joy her team brought to the children there

A tray will be placed in front of the altar from this Sunday to receive Mass intentions for your loved ones to be prayed for at the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed which will take place at 7.00pm on Wednesday 2nd November. There are envelopes for your prayer intentions and offerings at the back of the church. Please write the names of your loved ones on the envelope and place them in the tray in front of the altar. We will pray for those named at the Mass of the Solemnity of All Souls and at Masses throughout the month of November.

Our 61st Breakfast will be on Sunday November 6th after Mass. There will be the usual menu of orange juice, warm croissants, toast, butter, jam, tea & coffee all for a donation of £2. Everyone is welcome, so please come and join us. There will be a chance to meet and chat with other parishioners

Our Millennium Breakfast No. 61 was a great success and we can now send £211 to help Fr Ed in Peru. This amount is the most we have made for a Breakfast and we thank everyone for your generosity. Fr Ed will be delighted and he will be able to help some of the poor living in shanty towns in Peru.

Project Host. Please remember that the provision of cakes with tea and coffee after mass next Sunday will give you an opportunity to make a donation to the joint Save the Children & Churches Together Project supporting the children of Syria.

As part of a special feature in the Christmas newsletter about the Consecration of our church, we would like as many parishioners as possible to share their memories of the special day and the work that went into preparing for it. We will be handing out slips at mass next week, 20th November, for you to write a sentence or two (or more if you wish!) on your own particular experiences. If you prefer, you can email us instead - iehclarke@btinternet.com. Thank you.

We need your contributions of articles and photos for our Christmas newsletter. If you’ve never written for the newsletters before, this would be an ideal time to try it as we’ve had such a busy year! Perhaps you could give a behind-the scenes look at some of the preparations for the consecration, or review a parish event, or share your experience of the weekly meditations and reflections after mass, or write about some other aspect of parish life. All items, long or short, will be very welcome. Please email them to Ian and Ellie Clarke: iehclarke@btinternet.com.

Advent begins next Sunday. There will be a Mass at 7.00pm on Wednesdays with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament following until 8.00pm. The meditations accompanying Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament during Advent and Christmas will reflect the themes of those holy seasons. In addition, during Advent, there will be Mass on Thursdays at 7.00pm followed at 7.30pm by talks and discussion on the scriptural stories of Jesus' conception, birth and childhood. We will aim to finish around 8.45pm. It would be helpful if you would bring a Bible to these Thursday sessions

The Advent Talks and discussions in Advent will follow the 7.00pm Mass on Wednesdays. We will aim to finish around 8.45pm. It would be helpful if you could bring a Bible to these Wednesday evening sessions. Advent meditations will accompany adoration of the Blessed Sacrament after the 10.00am Mass on Thursdays. Meditations, silent reflection and prayer will finish at 11.00am with Benediction. No specialist knowledge required for these Advent devotions. All welcome

After mass today. Includes mince pies, small Christmas cakes, jams, chutneys and pickled onions, cards and gifts. Proceeds for Parish funds. We are also selling olive wood carvings, cribs and tree decorations, all made in the Holy Land. Proceeds for these will be sent there via Friends of the Holy Land in Kenilworth

Please choose gift tags and return the presents under the tree so they can be given to those in need of extra support this Christmas. Father Hudson's Society have specifically requested the children's presents for children of different ages. Please help as much as you can. The Society is going to let us have a list of commonly requested items to give us ideas for gifts. This will be on the notice board when received.

St George and St Teresa Catholic Primary School is looking for a governor from Balsall Common. This is a great opportunity to be involved in a vital part of the Catholic community in this area. If you are interested, please see Father Frank.

Requiem Mass on Tuesday at 1.00pm. Please note the change in time to the Mass on Tuesday. The Funeral Mass is for David Doyle, Rose Doyle’s son. You are welcome to add your prayerful support to the Mass through your attendance.

The series of meditations continue this week, drawing on the life and writings of St. Therese of Lisieux. Therese’s "Little Way" of confidence and trust in God's love and mercy is a way to God for everyone. One Jesuit writer says: "There is only one way for people to confront themselves and that is through silence. All of us need to develop a tolerance for silence, a place to touch the wellsprings of life inside of us." We can find this silence before Christ present in the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar. All welcome.

Please choose gift tags and return the presents under the tree so they can be given to those in need of extra support this Christmas. Father Hudson's Society have specifically requested the children's presents for children of different ages. Please help as much as you can. The Society is going to let us have a list of commonly requested items to give us ideas for gifts. This will be on the notice board when received

Please note that Thursday is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and there will be a Mass at 7.00pm which will be followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, silent prayer and Advent Meditations until 8.00pm when there will be Benediction

Monica Green is the new Safeguarding Representative (children and adults) for Blessed Robert Grissold, with Louise Perry being her deputy. A new requirement is for all children under 18 to have parental/ guardian consent for their photographs to be used by the Parish, on the website, display boards in the Church or published Parish newsletters etc. Monica will be at the back of Church after Mass over the next few weeks with the relevant form. If you have any questions about this, please speak to Monica or Louise

Our bumper 2016 Christmas newsletter is now available. It covers the period between Easter and Christmas 2016 and has a special extended article about the consecration of our church earlier this year. Click on the link to access our special newsletters page and then click on the Christmas 2016 link to access the newsletter. Alternatively paper copies will be available at both of our Christmas services on 24th and 25th December

For those of you who were unable to attend our carol service this year or who would like to listen to it again, click on the link to be taken to our carol services page then navigate to the bottom of the page and click on 2016. A full recording of the service is available there.

Christmas meditations will accompany adoration of the Blessed Sacrament after 10.00am Mass on Wednesday. Meditations, silent reflection and prayer will last for half an hour after Mass finishing with Benediction at 11.00am.

"Thank you for your generous offerings, gifts and cards. Once again, I have very much appreciated the prayerful preparation for, and celebration of, Christmas at Blessed Robert Grissold. I am especially grateful to all those who attended the Advent meditations, talks and discussions. I hope, that like me, you experienced the mutual support and prayers of your brothers and sisters in Christ helpful in getting ready to receive the God who comes to us in Christ. Thank you, to all of you, for the many different ways in which you contribute, throughout the year, to the life of the community at Blessed Robert Grissold. With all good wishes for 2017." Fr Frank

Father Frank is on his post-Christmas break from Monday. There will be a Eucharistic Service this Tuesday (3rd January). We welcome Fr Christopher Greaney to Blessed Robert Grissold next Sunday when he will celebrate the Mass of the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.

The diary for 2017 is now available at the back of the church. Our candle of Dedication next to the statue of the Sacred Heart, is lit anew each Sunday and burns for a week (Sunday to Saturday) in remembrance of a loved one, or in thanksgiving for a special occasion. The Dedication is included each week in our bulletin. Donation offers of £5 are suggested. You can request a Dedication by completing the details on the special envelopes at the back of the church and also filling in the name on the dates in the dairy. These can be handed to Bridget Harrison or Ann Ostler, if not, one of the wardens

Many thanks for those who gave gifts. Altogether there were 57, of which 29 for Children. These were sent to Father Hudson's Care at Coleshill. The others were distributed among the local housebound, the sick & elderly of our Parish by our young people and in some cases their parents. A big and sincere thank you to all who did this. It was greatly appreciated

On Wednesday evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament with Meditations and silent prayer will follow the 7.00pm Mass, finishing at 8.00pm with Benediction. Why not be still and silent in the presence of Christ in the Holy Sacrament of the Altar? We so need silence in our busy, noisy lives, especially if we are to listen to the Holy Spirit within - then the Holy Spirit inspires us and fills us with his love. This is what it meant when it says in Holy Scripture that the Holy Spirit prays within us in sighs too deep for words. All welcome

Coming up in 2017 a new churches together youth group will start. It will be on alternate Sunday nights for year 7 and older and starts on 15th January. It is being run jointly between the churches and will involve a mix of games, discussion and cake. Kathryn Driffield and Claire Keane are involved from our parish so please have a chat with them if you want to get involved.

The first session will be held at the Methodist Church hall this evening from 6.45 until 7.45. All secondary school students of any faith will be very welcome. The session on 2nd April is going to be hosted by Blessed Robert Grissold and we are hoping that some of the BRG adults will come along to help out on the evening. Please ask Claire Keane or Kathryn Driffield for details

Our first parish council meeting for 2017 is being held on Thursday, 19th January at 7:30 pm in the Parish Room when we will be planning our programme for the year. We would be delighted to have some new members please come and join us and give us your views and support

Eileen passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by her loved ones last Sunday. We keep Eileen and her family and friends in our prayers. There will be a Requiem Mass for her here, at Blessed Robert Grissold church, this Tuesday 24th January at 1.00pm

Meditations before the Blessed Sacrament continue to reflect on the writings of Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan who in 2000 Pope John Paul II chose him to preach a course of Spiritual Exercises for himself and the Vatican staff. Archbishop Van Thuan majors on “hope” in his addresses - a hope that he discovered during his 13 years imprisonment, nine of which were spent in solitary confinement. The hope he discovered in Communist prisons, where he was incarcerated for his faith, is also hope for the Church and the world. Faced with any darkness, we have a reason for confidence and that reason is Christ our Lord, the Hope of the world.

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered on the last Thursday of every month. All those who are challenged by their suffering in body, mind or spirit are welcome to receive this sacrament of Christ’s healing. This is a practice which dates back to the earliest Church and is encouraged in scripture, where it is written: 'Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church, and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons, and if they have committed any sins, their sins will be forgiven them.'

The Deanery Readers Day is on Sat 28th January 2017 at 10.30-16.30 at St Gregory's Stratford-Upon-Avon, exploring the ministry and spirituality of being a Reader. If you are interested, please phone 01926 314077

The Mass on Friday is a Mass of the Sacred Heart. It is also the day the Church commemorates St Blaise, consequently, as is the custom in the Church, the Blessing of Throats will take place at this Mass

Meditations before the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays continue to reflect on the writings of Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan who in 2000 Pope John Paul II chose to preach a course of Spiritual Exercises for himself and the Vatican staff. Archbishop Van Thuan majors on “hope” in his addresses - a hope that he discovered during his 13 years imprisonment for his faith, nine of which were spent in solitary confinement. This Wednesday’s meditations focus on what Jesus called the ‘one thing necessary,’ or as Van Thuan puts it “Choosing God and not the works of God.” Archbishop Van Thuan found hope in the presence of Christ, even amidst severe trials and deprivation. In our prayerful stillness and reflection before Christ in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar we can find that same hope. All welcome.

The talks on Wednesday evenings in Lent are an opportunity for all us to go deeper into our knowledge and love of that sacrament which forms, nurtures and nourishes us as the Church. These talks will be especially useful, also, for those who are considering being received into full Communion with the Church.

Subscriptions for 2017 are now due. If you have not yet renewed your subscription and would like to do so, Chris Burleigh will be available after Mass today, and for the next few Sundays. The cost is £15 for the year, with the chance to win £75, £45, or £30 each quarter. Last year the 100 Club contributed £645 towards church funds. Many thanks for your support.

A letter has been received from Mr. Andy Quinn, The Chief Executive of Father Hudson's Care, Coleshill thanking you all for the Christmas Gifts you very kindly donated. They were much appreciated. They were distributed along with many others to various parts of Our Diocese

This year there is a new way you can support Group 83 as they prepare for the annual Easter visit to Lourdes. They have opened up an ‘Amazon wish list’! These are items identified for this year's pilgrimage which supporters can buy for the Group. If you would like to buy something off the list simply go to http://amzn.eu/hgeB513, choose an item to buy and either have it sent to the group leader direct or to you for passing on through Maureen or Louise. Thanks for your support.

Choir practice will recommence on Sunday 19th February after mass. This will be an ideal stepping on point for anyone who has wondered about joining the choir as we will be learning a new piece of music for Easter. All welcome!

We pray for the repose of the soul of Becky Hulme, John and Margaret McLellan's granddaughter, whose funeral service is at 2pm on Wednesday 22nd February at Blessed Robert Grissold. We also keep Anne, Ian and Katy and all Becky’s family and friends in our prayers.

Balsall Common Christian Youth Group meets tonight for years 7 and above at the Methodist church 6.30 -7.45pm. All Youth welcome. Please speak to Claire Keane or Kathryn Driffield for more information. Future dates are the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month alternating around the Churches

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered on the last Thursday of every month. All those who are challenged by their suffering in body, mind or spirit are welcome to receive this sacrament of Christ’s healing. This is a practice which dates back to the earliest Church and is encouraged in scripture, where it is written: 'Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church, and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons, and if they have committed any sins, their sins will be forgiven them.'

Bishop Kenney shares his experience of Iraq and South Sudan and CAFOD’s work there. Thursday 23rd February 7.30-9.00pm, St John the Evangelist, 25 South Bar Street, BANBURY, OX16 9AF. For further information call 01922 722944

Could any children from Year 5 upwards who may be interested in making their Confirmation in 2018 contact Father Frank to register their interest. It would be starting in the new academic year from September with the ceremony itself in the early part of 2018.

At last week's presentation Bob emphasised the importance of keeping the offertories increasing. Many people have not increased their giving for at least three years. An extra £1/week would make a significant contribution to Parish finances. For those who can, Gift Aiding donations gives the Parish an extra 23% at no cost to the donor. Any new or existing parishioners who do not gift aid can do so by completing a simple form. Members of the Finance team will be available after mass today with forms.

Forty Days for Life - Prayerful Witness 1/3/17 – 9/4/17. Prep. launch event 26/2/17 2.30-4pm: “Spiritual Warfare Boot Camp.” An opportunity to deepen your faith this Lent by coming to learn the spiritual essentials under the guidance of 7 local priests at the. For info: 07773 501 721 or izzyvs@gmail.com

This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. It is the day that we receive the imposition of ashes - a sign that we are wholeheartedly entering into the penitential season of Lent when we look to turn away from sin and return to the Gospel. It is a day of abstinence and fasting. Mass is at 7pm.

Women's world day of prayer is to be held at Temple Balsall Church on Fri 3rd March at 11 followed by lunch at 12.30 in the Old Hall. Please give your name to Louise Perry for catering purposes if you plan to attend.

To coincide with today’s parish ‘breakfast’ for Fr. Ed O’Connell, the Columban missionaries invite members of the parish to add their names to an altar cloth that is being created for their centenary year in 2018. The altar cloth is being taken to places of special significance to the Columbans in Britain.

Balsall Common Christian Youth Group meets tonight for years 7 and above at St. Peters 6.30-7.45pm. Please speak to Claire Keane/Kathryn Driffield for more info. The Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month

Could parents of children from Year 5 up interested in making their Confirmation contact Fr. Frank to register interest. Instruction would start from September with the ceremony itself in the early part of 2018.

Subscriptions for 2017 are now due. Chris Burleigh will be available after Mass. The cost is £15 for the year, with the chance to win £75, £45, or £30 each quarter. Last year the 100 Club contributed £645 towards church funds.

A message from CAFOD “Florence is a hard-working mother who is devoted to her family. A few years ago, she was only just making enough to feed her family. However, CAFOD’s partner, the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, recognised how determined Florence was to stand on her own two feet and so they gave her 500 tiny fish, tools and training to build a pond and farm fish. By selling some of the fish at market, Florence was able to give her children a future – she was able to send them to school”. Please support this Lent Fast Day, to ensure more people like Florence can turn tiny fish into something amazing

Meditations before the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays continue to reflect on the writings of Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan who in 2000 Pope John Paul II chose to preach a course of Spiritual Exercises for himself and the Curia. Archbishop Van Thuan majors on "hope" in his addresses - a hope that he discovered during his 13 years imprisonment for his faith, nine of which were spent in solitary confinement. This Wednesday's meditations continue to explore the great blessing of coming into the present moment - the place where God - the eternally present 'I AM' - is to be found. We are greatly assisted in this by having Christ present to us, in the sacrament of the altar. In our prayerful stillness and reflection before Christ in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar we can be present to the One who is ever present. All welcome.

In order to help us to prepare prayerfully for Easter there will be Stations of the Cross on Tuesday mornings after Mass at 10am. Also, there will be Lent talks on the Eucharist after 7pm Mass on Wednesdays. The course is open and accessible to all, wherever you are on your Christian journey. (Please bring a Bible if you can). We begin with coffee at 7.30pm and finish before 9pm. Also there will be a Mass at 7pm on Thursdays followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and meditations on the spiritual life, finishing at 8.00pm with Benediction.

"During this week we remember especially the often forgotten pain of those suffering with dementia, and those who care for them." Bishop David McGough. Prayer cards available at the back of the church.

Cake will be available after Mass every Sunday in Lent - a joyful and enjoyable way of giving the seasonal alms. All donations will go to support the Columban’s missionary work. Thanks for the cakes already offered. If you would like to contribute cakes, please see Sara Stevens.

Thank you to everyone who came to the Breakfast last week. We hope you all enjoyed the chatter with friends and meeting new parishioners. Everyone was very generous and we raised £200 which will be sent to help Fr. Ed. O'Connell in the shanty towns of Peru.

On Sunday 19th March, after 9:30 mass, the men of the parish will provide a pancake breakfast (as a change to the usual bacon butties). A variety of toppings will tantalize your taste buds, so put the date in your diary and come along to support the event!

Balsall Common Christian Youth Group meets tonight for years 7 and above at St. Peters 6.30-7.45pm. Please speak to Claire Keane/Kathryn Driffield for more info. The Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month.

Churches Together Lenten Breakfasts are being held on Saturday mornings during Lent at the Methodist church from the 4th March to the 1st April. Each church hosts the breakfasts and Blessed Robert Grissold will be hosting on the 25 March. We need volunteers on this occasion. See notice board for more information or speak to Louise or John Perry.

This will be held on Sat 1st April 1- 3.30pm. Thank you to everyone who has already donated to this, we now have some lovely items for the Fayre. We are still in need of Easter Eggs, bottles etc. All donations to Tracey McAtamney at 86 Meeting House Lane (Tel: 01676 532940). Special Thanks to Nailcote Hall who has donated Sunday Lunch for 4 people in the Oak Room. Also to Haigs Hotel, The SnowDome, The Butterfly Farm, Hatton Adventure World and many others who have donated raffle prizes. For the children - Decorate Egg Competition - Bring along to the Fayre. Simply boil an egg and decorate! There will be three prizes and each child will receive a chocolate egg for entering!

Balsall Common Christian Youth Group meets tonight for years 7 and above, 6.30-7.45pm. This week it is Blessed Robert Grissold’s turn to host and the activities will include making bath bombs, games and cake! Please speak to Claire Keane/Kathryn Driffield for more information. The Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month.

A huge thank you to Tracey McAtamney and her team of helpers for the work put into organising a very successful Spring Fayre, and thank you to everyone who donated prizes and gifts etc. The event raised £794, a terrific result.

The traditional Churches Together ‘Walk of Witness’ will leave St Peter’s Church at 10.30am and process to the village via Blessed Robert Grissold Church. It will be followed by a Frugal Lunch in the Methodist Church Hall.

The Easter 2017 Newsletter is now available! Paper copies will be available at the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday masses but you can download a pdf version here by clicking on the link to the left and scrolling down to the Easter newsletters.

HCPT Group 83 left for Lourdes in the early hours of yesterday morning to spend one week in Lourdes. They return next Saturday in the evening. While they are there they will remember your kindness and generosity. Please do remember them in your prayers during the week. May they have a safe and happy week and return home with many blessings and joys

Easter Sunday will be the final Lenten cake sale for the Columban missionaries. Thank you so much for your generosity in baking and buying cakes, helping with setting up, washing and cleaning up. Total amount raised to be confirmed next week.

We pray for the repose of the soul of Jean O’Reilly and we pray for Danny, her husband, Jean’s family and friends and for all who mourn her passing. Jean’s body will be received into church on Tuesday 18th April at 6.00p.m., followed by a Requiem Mass on Wednesday 19th at 1.00p.m

Solihull MBC is currently consulting on proposals to cut the school bus service that connects Balsall Common to St George & Teresa, St Peter’s and Arden Schools. This will have a negative long term impact on the ability of children from Balsall Common to access the Borough’s Catholic Schools (as well as increasing car journeys, congestion and pollution). We would urge parishioners to respond to the Council’s consultation either on-line at http://www.solihull.gov.uk/consultation or in writing to either School Transport, Council House, Manor Square, Solihull B91 3QB or via email edtrans@solihull.gov.uk . The deadline for comments is 28th April

Thank you for your cards and once again for your generous Easter offerings and for the way you contribute to the life of our worshipping community, so facilitating our mutual upbuilding in faith. I am taking my post-Easter break this week therefore there will not be the usual weekday Masses. There is, however, a Eucharistic Service on Tuesday at 1000am. Fr Frank.Welcome

The Youth Group returns this evening to Blessed Robert Grissold, 6.30pm to 7.45 pm. This is open to all Secondary School Children, as well as those in Year 6. No need to book, just come along and have fun. Tonight the group will be bringing along board games and will also be marbling Easter Eggs, as well as the usual activities of table tennis, a short bible discussion, and cake! Any cakes donations for this evening would me most welcome. Please speak to Kathryn Driffield or Claire Keane. The Group generally meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays on the month during term time and rotates around the Churches.

Meditations before the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesday evenings continue to reflect on the writings of Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan who in 2000 Pope John Paul II chose to preach a course of Spiritual Exercises for himself and the Curia. Archbishop Van Thuan majors on "hope" in his addresses - a hope that he discovered during his 13 years imprisonment for his faith, nine of which were spent in solitary confinement. In this week's meditations Van Thuan reflects on the beautiful mystery of the Church. In our prayerful stillness and reflection before the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar we can find healing and peace and be present to the Christ who is present to us and feeds us with the life of heaven in and through the Eucharist - the Sacrament which forms the Church. All welcome.

On Thursday we celebrate the Feast of the English Martyrs many of whom, like our own Blessed Robert Grissold, had associations with the Midlands. Their courageous witness to the faith and their prayers are still a source of great strength for us. We give thanks to God for them on their Feast.

On the first Friday of every month we celebrate a votive Mass of the Sacred Heart of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We have a special devotion to this practice at Blessed Robert Grissold because the relic of St Margaret Mary, who received a vision of Christ’s Sacred Heart, was placed in our altar at the consecration of our church. Great benefits are promised to those who are faithful in their devotion to the Sacred Heart of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our next Meeting for the Warwick Deanery parishes is on Monday 8th May at 7.30pm in the upper Davenport Room, St Peter's Parish Centre, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AE. It is hoped that each parish will be represented. Contact 01926 428399

Next Week (14th – 20th May) is Christian Aid Week. The more people willing to collect on behalf of this worthy cause the easier it would be for the village as a whole. Please consider during mass today whether you could spend a couple of hours to deliver and collect envelopes from a road near to you. Then before you leave church put your name on the sheet in the Narthex. Alternatively give Godfrey Chesshire a call during this week (532352). Thank you.

Ian and Ellie Clarke celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary earlier this week. They will receive a blessing during Mass today to mark the occasion, and would like to invite everyone to join them in the Parish Room after mass for a slice of cake.

The amount received was £362.28. Thank you and all the parishioners at BRG for your support. You generous gift will enable partners to work with people and communities across the world, wherever the need is greatest. Best wishes, Chris Funnel, CAFOD, Head of Supporter Donations. And our thanks too, to our own Chris, who is parish co-ordinator for CAFOD

Fancy a night out for a really good cause to see the National Grid UK choir and friends (including our own Ian and Hannah Clarke) perform in a variety evening in Warwick? You do, well read on! Our parish music director sings with the UK National Grid choir who have decided to step in when Round Oak school's Music of Life programme was a casualty of government funding cuts. Round Oak school works with children with special educational needs and this programme is essential in helping them build confidence, presentation, public speaking and team work skills. It also helps with memory and is great for positive mental health. Click on the link to find out more and book your tickets!

Churches Together have arranged a 'Meet the Candidates' evening for the General Election in order to provide an opportunity to question candidates on Friday 19th May, 7.30pm at St Peter’s Church. If you wish to have a question asked please contact Godfrey Chesshire by 16th May on 01676 532352

Last chance to book your place at the annual Parish Supper on Saturday 20th May 7.30pm for 8pm. This will consist of a 2 course meal with entertainment from the Ivy Leaf Ceilidh Band. Price £10 per head. Bring your own drink. Please give your name to Chris after Mass. If you have booked already please give your choice of main course to Chris

This is an opportunity to continue the reflections on the Eucharist which we began in Lent. Meditations on the great treasure which we have in the Mass will be accompanied by silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome

It has been suggested that it would be helpful if the initials of those who have requested a Mass Intention could appear in the Bulletin - so that one would know when the Mass which you have requested is being said. If you would like your initials to be included, please indicate this on the envelopes, that you will find in the foyer, which are provided for your Mass intention requests and accompanying offerings.

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered on the last Thursday of every month. All those who are challenged by their suffering in body, mind or spirit are welcome to receive this sacrament of Christ's healing. This is a practice which dates back to the earliest Church and is encouraged in scripture, where it is written: 'Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church, and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons, and if they have committed any sins, their sins will be forgiven them.'

Last Saturday at St Peter's, Leamington the start of the Fatima Centenary Year was celebrated. St Peter's is a pilgrimage church for the Birmingham archdiocese during this time. A new church statue of Our Lady of Fatima was crowned and an Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary was made. Everyone is welcome to visit St Peter’s over the year and more especially on the 13th of each month for the special indulgence.

A big thank you to all helped support the Parish Supper with the food the music and setting out and clearing up. It was a real parish effort. The grand sum of £627 was raised towards parish funds. A most enjoyable evening was had by all.

Margaret and John McLellan recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. They will receive a blessing during Mass today to mark the occasion and invite everyone to join them in the Parish Room after Mass for some cake.

Please note the changes to the Mass times this week due to Fr Frank having to attend a funeral in Devon. On Tuesday we are invited to share in the Mass at 6.00 pm when we welcome members of the Newman Society and Canon Stewart, the celebrant.

Today we congratulate Saoirse Cole and Hannah McDermott on making their First Holy Communion at St George and Teresa's on Saturday and we welcome them and their families at Mass this morning when they will be receiving their first Communion with us, their regular worshipping community. They would like to welcome all parishioners to join them after Mass today in the Parish room for tea and cake to celebrate this occasion.

Meditations on the Eucharist, Church and mission continue after Mass on Wednesdays. This Wednesday we explore the relationship between the Eucharist, the Church and the Kingdom of God. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ and his Church and to find peace in the presence of Our Lord in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome.

The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus falls on Friday 23rd June - which we will celebrate with a Mass. Also, during this month, we can seek to deepen our devotion to the love of God revealed in the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus - a devotion encouraged by St Margaret Mary, whose relic rests in our altar. We might even consider consecrating ourselves to the Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ. To this end I have provided a Prayer of Consecration, written by St Margaret Mary, which we could pray daily throughout the month of June and especially before the Mass. To assist us in our devotion I intend us to pray this Act of Consecration after every weekday Mass during June. Please keep the separate sheet to hand when attending mass this month.
Prayer: I give and consecrate to the Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ, my whole life, all my actions, my trials, my sufferings, devoting every portion of my being to loving, honouring, and glorifying him, to working for his love alone, renouncing with all my heart whatever may be displeasing to him. I take you, then, O Sacred Heart, for the one object of my love, the protector of my life, the pledge of my salvation, the remedy of my inconstancy, the redeemer of all my faults, and my sure refuge in the hour of death. O Heart of all goodness, be my justification before God the Father, and shield me from the effects of his just anger. O Heart, overflowing with love, I place all my confidence in you, for I dread my own weakness, while I hope everything from your goodness. Destroy in me whatever displeases you or goes against your will. May pure love of you be so deeply imprinted in my heart that I may never forget you nor be separated from you. I implore you by all your love that my name be graven upon you. May it be my happiness to live and die as your slave. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered on the last Thursday of every month. All those who are challenged by their suffering in body, mind or spirit are welcome to receive this sacrament of Christ's healing. This is a practice which dates back to the earliest Church and is encouraged in scripture, where it is written: 'Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church, and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons, and if they have committed any sins, their sins will be forgiven them.'

The Catenians are offering to cover the fees of training to be a Catechist in the parish. Once trained you would prepare candidates for First Communion and Confirmation. Please contact Fr Frank if you are interested.

Tabor House, Birmingham’s only permanent night shelter for homeless people, is opening in September. Could you volunteer as a host or mentor? Please come along to an open evening on Thursday 13 July, 6-9pm, at St Anne’s Catholic Church, 96 Bradford Street, Birmingham B12 0PY. Contact Christy Acton on 01675 434064 to find out more

Number 63 is today after Mass. The usual fare of hot croissants, toast, jam, orange juice, tea and coffee. Everyone is welcome and it is a chance for our community to meet for a chat and also to welcome new parishioners to our Church. Donations will be sent to Fr. Ed O'Connell (a Columban Priest) who has spent most his life helping the poor people of Lima, Peru. Our parish has been helping Fr Ed. since 2000

Get Together this Wednesday 2nd August. Coach trip to the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas. Meet at BRG at 9.45am for departure at 10am. We leave Alrewas at 3pm and should arrive back about 3.45pm. If anyone who has signed up to go is unable to, please let Judith know on 01676 534010

Since it was formed in 1988 the BVTS has been helping local people by taking them to hospitals and various medical clinics in the area for appointments they would otherwise find difficult to attend due to lack of public transport. With the relocation of the Balsall Common Health Centre, the withdrawal of the bus service and taxi bus, the service has been under increasing pressure to satisfy the requests it receives. It is felt that the BVTS provides a worthwhile service to the local community and health service, which has proved successful due to a much-needed demand and the kind, caring qualities of its drivers. There is a desperate need of new drivers – it is totally voluntary so your commitment can be to suit you – perhaps just one trip a week, or even one a month would be much appreciated. Drivers are asked to donate their time but as the service is run on voluntary donations from passengers the service can reimburse fuel costs to drivers. If you think you might be able to help and would like to know more please contact Michal or Jessica Hudson on 02476 466220, Edna Quinton-Tulloch on 01676 535758 or Margaret Royle on 01676 532592.

Open The Book is a wonderful resource, bringing Bible stories to children at school in their primary years. Through a series of weekly presentations for Collective Worship/Assembly, they'll get to hear many wonderful Bible stories – not only about well-known characters, but also about important values like faith, courage, patience and selflessness. To do this, volunteers are needed to become storytellers, and become part of a team to go into local schools and put on OPEN THE BOOK Bible story presentations. There will be a meeting at St. Peters church on Monday or Tuesday 7th/8th August, (date to be confirmed), if you are interested please let Louise, John or Godfrey know. There are a few leaflets available at the back of church or for more information please visit: openthebook.net.

Meditations on the Eucharist, Church and mission continue after Mass on Wednesdays. This Wednesday we reflect on the significance of the altar in church and on our ascent to the heavenly places in and through the sacred mysteries of the Eucharist. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ and his Church and to find peace in the presence of Our Lord in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome

A series of talks and discussions on the faith begin in September and continue until Advent. We will meet after an evening Mass each Thursday. The sessions will last about 45 minutes and will address all aspects of our faith. All are welcome to attend but those preparing for Confirmation or for reception into full Communion with the Church should attend because these sessions will serve as a means of their formation.

I am Fr. Sijo Jose Arikkat, Grand Nephew of Fr. Sebastian Arikkat. I had visited there [at Blessed Robert Grissold] earlier in 2008 and celebrated Holy Mass for the Parishioners community. I happened to see this website while doing my work and was happy to remember all of you. I would also like to convey my prayers and regards to all especially those who are sick and in need of prayers. Hope they might remember me. I am now in a parish named Vellanikode, Archdiocese of Trichur, India. On August 27th & 28th we celebrate the feast of St. Augustine in my parish. Do keep us in prayers too. Also you might have known about Fr. Sebastian who has become the Monsignor (Vicar General) of Canada. Keep him too in your prayers. God bless you all.

On the first Friday of every month it is customary to celebrate a votive Mass of the Sacred Heart. We can still pray the prayer of Consecration to the Sacred Heart daily and at the monthly Votive Masses. The prayer is shown below:
I give and consecrate to the Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ, my whole life, all my actions, my trials, my sufferings, devoting every portion of my being to loving, honouring, and glorifying him, to working for his love alone, renouncing with all my heart whatever may be displeasing to him. I take you, then, O Sacred Heart, for the one object of my love, the protector of my life, the pledge of my salvation, the remedy of my inconstancy, the redeemer of all my faults, and my sure refuge in the hour of death. O Heart of all goodness, be my justification before God the Father, and shield me from the effects of his just anger. O Heart, overflowing with love, I place all my confidence in you, for I dread my own weakness, while I hope everything from your goodness. Destroy in me whatever displeases you or goes against your will. May pure love of you be so deeply imprinted in my heart that I may never forget you nor be separated from you. I implore you by all your love that my name be graven upon you. May it be my happiness to live and die as your slave. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Annual Pilgrimage to Harvington Hall (Shrine of the English Martyrs) will take place next Sunday 3rd September 2017. Principal celebrant and preacher: Rt. Rev Robert Byrne. Mass 3.00pm. Confessions from 1.45-2.30pm. See the poster on the notice board for further details.

There will be a short meeting of the choir after mass today (15 mins only!) to review the music we will be preparing for Advent and Christmas. We will begin our normal rehearsals after Mass on 17th September. This is a great 'stepping on' point for anyone who would like to join our choir, you don't need to be qualified or be able to read music just to enjoy singing! Come along after mass or to our rehearsal on the 17th or contact Ian or Ellie Clarke on iehclarke@btinternet.com or 01676 533 931 if you think you might be interested.

On Saturday 16 September, 11.15am-1pm. St Peter the Apostle parish, 3a Dormer Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AA. You are warmly invited to join us for Mass at 10am and light refreshments from 10.45am. Tania is CAFOD's Communications Officer for Latin America& the Caribbean. There will be the opportunity to find out more about CAFOD's work in El Salvador and how you can get involved this Harvest Fast Day. All very welcome. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Wignall at ewignall@cafod.org.uk or on 01922 722944. Please see poster on notice board

'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest'. Mark 6 v 31. Meet at the Old Hall, Temple Balsall. Saturday, 16 September. Coffee available at 9.30am as we arrive for a prompt 10.00am start; finishing at 12 noon. For the Season of Advent, The Revd Jane Braund, Minister at Balsall Common & Meriden Methodist Churches will help direct our thoughts before we find our 'own individual space' within the beautiful grounds and buildings. In order for the morning to be helpful to those attending we can only take a maximum of 30 people. Please submit your name to Doug Timmis (01676 534346) as soon as possible.

Maryvale Institute offers a range of part-time, distant learning courses e.g. in Catechesis, Parish Mission & Ministry and Healthcare Chaplaincy, among others. These are designed to enable adults to continue their own faith formation and equip themselves for collaborative ministry with the clergy in their Parishes. For more information, come along to an informal meeting in the Flint Room, St Peter's Parish Centre, Dormer Place, 21st September at 7.30pm.

On Sunday 24th September, Monsignor celebrates his ordination Golden Jubilee and this very special occasion will be marked on the day with a Mass at 3 pm celebrated by Bishop Robert Byrne, followed by light refreshments in the Parish Centre. Blessed Robert Grissold parishioners are cordially invited to the celebration. If you are able to come, please sign up on the board at the back of church by Sunday 17th September in order to assist with organisation and catering. If you wish to contribute towards a gift there are special collection envelopes also available at the back of church.

You may be aware of the article in the Bugle and Communicator to ask SMBC for a boundary review. At present the border between Balsall Parish Council and Berkswell PC lies on Meeting House Lane. With the changes and development, the village faces the question is whether these boundaries are still appropriate and if there is a better way of managing our village more effectively? Your signatures on the form in the Bugle could trigger the progress in order to look at the various options. Please read the article and return your form to Angela Jayne by the end of September, alternatively there is a form at the back of the church

As many of you will be aware repair and replacement works are being undertaken outside our church between tomorrow 25 September and Friday 6 October, 8.30am to 5pm. and the road adjacent to the church will be closed. We have received assurance that access to the church car park will be maintained over the weekend. However, on other days, if you are driving to church, you should approach from the direction of Kelsey Lane and park in the car park adjacent to the Tennis Club. The work is scheduled to last approx. 10 days although we are hoping it will be completed in less time.

The series of talks and discussions on the faith continue this Tuesday evening, beginning at 7.00pm. We will meet in the church hall on Tuesdays after Mass at 6.30pm until the end of Advent. The sessions will last about 45 minutes and will address all aspects of our faith. All are welcome to attend in order to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the Church's teaching, but those preparing for Confirmation (adults and children), or for reception into full Communion with the Church, should attend because these sessions will serve as a means of their formation

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered on the last Thursday of every month. All those who are challenged by their suffering in body, mind or spirit are welcome to receive this sacrament of Christ's healing. This is a practice which dates back to the earliest Church and is encouraged in scripture, where it is written: 'Are there any who are sick among you? Let them send for the priests of the Church, and let the priests pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick persons, and if they have committed any sins, their sins will be forgiven them.'

Do you have any photos of parish events this year? Would you like to write a few words about an event or part of parish life? We are already looking for items to go in our seasonal Christmas newsletter, in an attempt to avoid the usual last-minute rush! Please email any items to Ian Clarke at: iehclarke@btinternet.com.

It is the Harvest Family Day on Friday 6 October and I will be collecting for CAFOD next Sunday 9 October. Any amount that you can give will be greatly appreciated and will certainly transform lives. Thank you in advance for your continual generosity.
Thank you so much to everyone who gave me teddies or soft toys to go out to war-torn areas of the world. In July, I took a car load bursting at the seams (including your donations) to the "Teddies Trust" in Wales. From there, In August 10,000 teddies and soft toys have been shipped to Syria to towns and villages all over the country. These teddies will bring comfort and hopefully some joy to otherwise very bleak lives. This is an ongoing charity and if anyone would like to support it, then please leave teddies and soft toys at the back of church and I will collect them and take them on the first part of their journey. Chris Lynn.

Meditations on the Eucharist, Church and mission continue after Mass this Wednesday. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ and his Church and to find peace in the presence of Our Lord in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome

Over the coming weeks Father Frank will meet briefly with a number of groups after the Sunday Mass in order to discuss matters arising out of the various ministries we exercise in the church community. He looka forward to meeting with you on the following dates:
Sunday 8th October: Musicians, choir, organists
Sunday 15th October: Readers
Sunday 22nd October: Servers
Sunday 29th October: Wardens
Sunday 5th November: Eucharistic Ministers
If you are interested in joining any of these groups, please feel free to attend the meetings and speak to Father Frank.

A Coffee evening will on Friday 13 October in Our Parish Room at 7.30p.m. Admission is 50p. which includes Refreshments. There will be the usual stalls, Cake, Preserves, Presents for All, Christmas Cards, Tombola and Raffle. Contributions for the stalls will be much appreciated and may be brought to the church before the day. Do put the date in your dairy and do tell your friends. It is always a very enjoyable evening. All proceeds will go towards the youngsters going to Lourdes next Easter with Group 83.

13 October marks the centenary of Our Lady’s last apparition and great miracle at Fatima. St Peter’s, Dormer Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AE is a pilgrimage church for the Birmingham archdiocese during the Fatima Centenary Year and there will be exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.30am to 12.20pm and 5pm to 6pm. This will be the last chance to gain the special indulgence when you visit St Peter’s on that day. There will be a special votive Mass for Our Lady of Fatima at 12.30pm. Please see the pilgrim leaflet by the Fatima display area opposite the piety shop for details of the indulgence and other resources. For other information contact Peter Dimambro 01926 428399 mdimambro@hotmail.co.uk

Our annual parish quiz will be held on Saturday, 14th October. 7.00 for 7.30pm: Tables of up to 6 players. £8.00 each player, including ‘Fish & Chip Supper’. Bring your own drinks. Please book your table with Godfrey or Linda after mass.

Were you one of the teachers or pupils who left St. Peter’s in 1977? Many of those pupils and teachers are meeting in Solihull on 14 October for a drink and buffet to celebrate. See poster on noticeboard for more details

This year’s celebration in thanksgiving for the gifts of the harvest will be at mass on Sunday 15th October. As in previous years, parishioners are invited to donate items to a charity to be distributed to those in need - this year our donations will be given to Helping Hands Food Bank in Solihull. Children and young people (and even the not-so-young!) are invited to decorate a box with a harvest theme, so that the donations can be put in boxes and brought in during church.
Please bring your donation of any of the following to mass on 15th October - even one item will make a difference to a family in need. Tins: stew, casseroles, soup, corned beef, chicken or steak pies, Spam, fish, vegetables, puddings, baked beans. Packets: tea bags, long-life milk, sugar, breakfast cereal, biscuits, pasta, rice. Jars: pasta sauce, sandwich spread, jam. No fresh vegetables or other perishable items, please.

On the 7th October the Church celebrated the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary and October is the month of the Rosary and it is a good time, therefore, to renew our devotion to our Lord and our Blessed Lady through this rich source of prayer. We will offer up a decade of the Rosary before the Sunday Mass and after every weekday Mass throughout the month of October. According to tradition, current since the 15th century, the devotion of the Rosary was founded by St. Dominic in the course of his missionary work. Since then many saints have found the Rosary to be an indispensable aid in their spiritual life. I will be happy to help anyone who requires any assistance in learning to pray the Rosary.

Chris Mitchell & Maureen Carroll are going to Lourdes next Friday. They and their group will be staying in Hosanna House which is situated about 3 miles from Lourdes. They return the following Friday. They are willing to take your petitions and will light a candle for you if you so wish; £5 per candle. Please may they have them by Wednesday. Thank you.

Please note there will be no Mass on Tuesday this week. I have transferred my day off this week from Monday to Tuesday in order to give us the chance to celebrate St Margaret Mary’s feast day on Monday 16th at 10.00am. St Margaret Mary received mystical revelations concerning the Sacred Heart of Jesus and, through Christ working in her, devotion to the Sacred Heart has spread throughout the world. A relic of St Margaret Mary was placed in the altar of our church at its consecration.

The theme this year is 'My world depends on you', when we are encouraged to explore how we can become good neighbours, both locally and globally. The Dinner will be held here at Blessed Robert Grissold Church this coming Friday, 20th October at 7.30pm. The Speaker will be Godfrey Armitage from A Rocha UK, a Christian Charity working for the protection and restoration of the natural world. He is also Coventry Diocesan Environmental Officer. Tickets for the Buffet Dinner, supplied by Bengal Brasserie, are £12.50 per person and are available from Godfrey Chesshire after mass today.

We are all invited to attend the Mass of Thanksgiving for 100 years of Columban mission on Saturday 25th November 2017, 11.00am at St Catherine of Siena church, Birmingham. The Mass will be followed by light refreshments. If you would like to attend please send your name, address and contact telephone number to: sharing gospeljoy@columbans.co.uk

We are all invited to attend the Mass of Thanksgiving for 100 years of Columban mission on Saturday 25th November 2017, 11.00am at St Catherine of Siena church, Birmingham. The Mass will be followed by light refreshments. If you would like to attend please send your name, address and contact telephone number to: sharing gospeljoy@columbans.co.uk

The theme this year is 'My world depends on you', when we are encouraged to explore how we can become good neighbours, both locally and globally. The Dinner will be held here at Blessed Robert Grissold Church this coming Friday, 20th October at 7.30pm. The Speaker will be Godfrey Armitage from A Rocha UK, a Christian Charity working for the protection and restoration of the natural world. He is also Coventry Diocesan Environmental Officer. Tickets for the Buffet Dinner, supplied by Bengal Brasserie, are £12.50 per person and are available from Godfrey Chesshire after mass today.

Please note there will be no Mass on Tuesday this week. I have transferred my day off this week from Monday to Tuesday in order to give us the chance to celebrate St Margaret Mary’s feast day on Monday 16th at 10.00am. St Margaret Mary received mystical revelations concerning the Sacred Heart of Jesus and, through Christ working in her, devotion to the Sacred Heart has spread throughout the world. A relic of St Margaret Mary was placed in the altar of our church at its consecration.

This year’s celebration in thanksgiving for the gifts of the harvest will be at mass on Sunday 15th October. As in previous years, parishioners are invited to donate items to a charity to be distributed to those in need - this year our donations will be given to Helping Hands Food Bank in Solihull. Children and young people (and even the not-so-young!) are invited to decorate a box with a harvest theme, so that the donations can be put in boxes and brought in during church.
Please bring your donation of any of the following to mass on 15th October - even one item will make a difference to a family in need. Tins: stew, casseroles, soup, corned beef, chicken or steak pies, Spam, fish, vegetables, puddings, baked beans. Packets: tea bags, long-life milk, sugar, breakfast cereal, biscuits, pasta, rice. Jars: pasta sauce, sandwich spread, jam. No fresh vegetables or other perishable items, please.

On the 7th October the Church celebrated the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary and October is the month of the Rosary and it is a good time, therefore, to renew our devotion to our Lord and our Blessed Lady through this rich source of prayer. We will offer up a decade of the Rosary before the Sunday Mass and after every weekday Mass throughout the month of October. According to tradition, current since the 15th century, the devotion of the Rosary was founded by St. Dominic in the course of his missionary work. Since then many saints have found the Rosary to be an indispensable aid in their spiritual life. I will be happy to help anyone who requires any assistance in learning to pray the Rosary.

Chris Mitchell & Maureen Carroll are going to Lourdes next Friday. They and their group will be staying in Hosanna House which is situated about 3 miles from Lourdes. They return the following Friday. They are willing to take your petitions and will light a candle for you if you so wish; £5 per candle. Please may they have them by Wednesday. Thank you.

Our annual parish quiz will be held on Saturday, 14th October. 7.00 for 7.30pm: Tables of up to 6 players. £8.00 each player, including ‘Fish & Chip Supper’. Bring your own drinks. Please book your table with Godfrey or Linda after mass.

Were you one of the teachers or pupils who left St. Peter’s in 1977? Many of those pupils and teachers are meeting in Solihull on 14 October for a drink and buffet to celebrate. See poster on noticeboard for more details

A Coffee evening will on Friday 13 October in Our Parish Room at 7.30p.m. Admission is 50p. which includes Refreshments. There will be the usual stalls, Cake, Preserves, Presents for All, Christmas Cards, Tombola and Raffle. Contributions for the stalls will be much appreciated and may be brought to the church before the day. Do put the date in your dairy and do tell your friends. It is always a very enjoyable evening. All proceeds will go towards the youngsters going to Lourdes next Easter with Group 83.

13 October marks the centenary of Our Lady’s last apparition and great miracle at Fatima. St Peter’s, Dormer Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AE is a pilgrimage church for the Birmingham archdiocese during the Fatima Centenary Year and there will be exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.30am to 12.20pm and 5pm to 6pm. This will be the last chance to gain the special indulgence when you visit St Peter’s on that day. There will be a special votive Mass for Our Lady of Fatima at 12.30pm. Please see the pilgrim leaflet by the Fatima display area opposite the piety shop for details of the indulgence and other resources. For other information contact Peter Dimambro 01926 428399 mdimambro@hotmail.co.uk

Meditations on the Eucharist, Church and mission continue after Mass this Wednesday. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen our knowledge and love of Christ and his Church and to find peace in the presence of Our Lord in the Sacrament of the Altar. All welcome

Over the coming weeks Father Frank will meet briefly with a number of groups after the Sunday Mass in order to discuss matters arising out of the various ministries we exercise in the church community. He looka forward to meeting with you on the following dates:
Sunday 8th October: Musicians, choir, organists
Sunday 15th October: Readers
Sunday 22nd October: Servers
Sunday 29th October: Wardens
Sunday 5th November: Eucharistic Ministers
If you are interested in joining any of these groups, please feel free to attend the meetings and speak to Father Frank.

It is the Harvest Family Day on Friday 6 October and I will be collecting for CAFOD next Sunday 9 October. Any amount that you can give will be greatly appreciated and will certainly transform lives. Thank you in advance for your continual generosity.
Thank you so much to everyone who gave me teddies or soft toys to go out to war-torn areas of the world. In July, I took a car load bursting at the seams (including your donations) to the "Teddies Trust" in Wales. From there, In August 10,000 teddies and soft toys have been shipped to Syria to towns and villages all over the country. These teddies will bring comfort and hopefully some joy to otherwise very bleak lives. This is an ongoing charity and if anyone would like to support it, then please leave teddies and soft toys at the back of church and I will collect them and take them on the first part of their journey. Chris Lynn.

Do you have any photos of parish events this year? Would you like to write a few words about an event or part of parish life? We are already looking for items to go in our seasonal Christmas newsletter, in an attempt to avoid the usual last-minute rush! Please email any items to Ian Clarke at: iehclarke@btinternet.com.